Tailbone Pain at 22 Weeks Pregnant
Tailbone (coccyx) pain is a common pregnancy complaint, especially in the second and third trimesters. Relaxin loosens the joints around the coccyx, and the growing uterus shifts posture, putting additional strain on the area.
👶 What's Happening at Week 22
Your baby is now the size of a papaya.
- The inner ear is fully developed — the fetus has a sense of balance.
- Eyelids are formed but still fused shut.
- Lips become more distinct.
🔬 Why You're Experiencing Tailbone Pain at Week 22
- Relaxin hormone loosens the sacrococcygeal joint (where the tailbone meets the sacrum)
- Shifted center of gravity changes how weight is distributed onto the tailbone
- Prolonged sitting puts direct pressure on the coccyx
- Baby's position may place pressure on the coccyx from inside
- Prior tailbone injury is more symptomatic during pregnancy
💊 Relief Tips for Week 22
📋 Other Week 22 Symptoms
⚠️ Call Your Doctor If…
- Tailbone pain is severe and disabling
- Pain extends down both legs or causes numbness (possible nerve involvement)
- Tailbone pain after a fall or direct injury
- Pain with bowel movements that is worsening
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a baby break your tailbone during birth?
A baby can occasionally fracture or dislocate the tailbone (coccyx) during a difficult delivery, especially with forceps or prolonged pushing. This is relatively rare.
What is the best sitting position for tailbone pain in pregnancy?
Leaning slightly forward so weight rests on the sit bones (ischial tuberosities) rather than the coccyx is best. A coccyx cushion supports this position.
Will tailbone pain resolve after birth?
For most women, coccyx pain improves significantly within weeks to months after delivery as relaxin levels drop and posture normalizes.
Can tailbone pain cause problems during labor?
Significant coccyx flexibility is actually helpful during labor, as the coccyx moves to widen the birth canal. In most cases, tailbone pain does not complicate delivery.